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DISCUSSION => Engine + Driveline => Topic started by: t la on February 11, 2011, 10:30:19 PM

Title: Condensation?
Post by: t la on February 11, 2011, 10:30:19 PM

So today i decided to check my oil level because my little m42 likes to pee a little bit.  i pulled out the dipstick and it had some milky water-n-oil substance on it.  I shut the car off, and then took off the oil cap, which had just a ring of milky color around the edge of it.

after putting the dipstick back in and pulling it out, the oil color was normal except at the top of the dipstick where there was some remaining milky color that the oil hadn't climbed up to.

Is this a head/headgasket problem? or would this small amount of milky color just indicate some condensation?

I had just driven the car back from school (10 minute drive) about 2 hours before i was leaving for work and checked my oil level which makes me think the condensation would have evaporated

Title: Condensation?
Post by: pdxmotorhead on February 11, 2011, 10:50:38 PM

E10 fuel tends to make my car do the same thing....

I think its condensed alcohol...

Dave

Title: Condensation?
Post by: DesktopDave on February 12, 2011, 08:31:36 AM

I think it's normal condensation as well.  You'd need a leakdown test, tailpipe test or used oil analysis to be sure that it's coolant, not water, getting into the oil.

If you're using the car for short trips, the water doesn't have enough time to boil out of the crankcase vent either.  Check after a nice long trip to see if the water is still in evidence.

Alcohol based fuels (>10% gasohol) will absorb more water in storage and in use and will decrease fuel mileage as well.   Could also be leaks in the vac lines, but you've recently replaced them, right?

BTW, I'd highly recommend used oil analysis.  I use it  to extend the drain intervals on my synthetic motor oil.  Blackstone Labs is a  good vendor, they really let you know what's up with your motor.  Click here (http://www.blackstone-labs.com/free-test-kits.php) for a free kit.  Sent it back to them with $25 & get a motor health check.  Definitely cheap insurance over the long run.  I'm not involved with the company, just satisfied with their services.

Title: Condensation?
Post by: t la on February 12, 2011, 11:31:59 AM

the alcohol makes so much sense, i usually fill up with shell v power (i don't believe there is alcohol in that gasoline.  but i needed gas far from home one day so i got some gas from a gulf station.

thanks for the help guys, I'll probably get that oil tester also, thanks for the recomendation